100 in 100: Daryl Washington (39 of 100)

It always seems that there are very good Linebacker prospects in every draft...more so in the last few. I believe that Daryl Washington potentially possesses the most upside of any Linebacker coming out in '10. He flies to the ball no matter where it's going on the field and has a motor that doesn't shut off. He does well in coverage and he does well in run-stopping. Early on, at the beginning of this college football season, Jerry Hughes had the spot light on the defensive side of the ball for TCU. However, as the season progressed, Washington moved in to that "leading" role slowly or at the very least shared the spot light. Having two players like that on The Horned Frogs defense helped them reach The Tostitos Fiesta Bowl where they played Boise State where they fell just short 10-17. Washington finished the year with 109 Tackles, 2 Sacks, 3 Interceptions for 48 Yards and a Touchdown. TCU recruited Washington in '06 and he was an instant contributor on special teams and linebacker.

The Texas Christian University Senior Linebacker doesn't have too many flaws; at least glaring ones. He participated in the Senior Bowl a few weeks ago and did very well for the playing time he was given in the game.

There are two or three big name linebackers entering the draft; the most notable probably are Rolando McClain, Brandon Spikes, and Sean Weatherspoon. Daryl Washington is quietly waiting in line behind those guys. Waiting for his chance to show that he is just as good, if not better than those mentioned. He could be this years draft steal and perform better than McClain, Spikes, and Weatherspoon once he's playing in the NFL.

Below, we'll look at Washington's highlights from the Fiesta Bowl, some of his stats, and project where he may end up going in this years draft. 

This video illustrates the potential of Washington very well. It really encompasses everything he does well and shows that there aren't too many flaws. He sheds blocks well, covers above par, and dashes to the ball on just about every play. Right now, Washington plays Outside Linebacker and that is probably what he'll be drafted as, but if someone wanted him as an Inside Linebacker, I don't think that would be too far-fetched for Washington to do that. If he did switch, he may have to consider putting on 5 to 10 LBS or so which is not a ton if he hits the gym hard and goes on a high calorie diet.

AWARDS AND HONORS:

• 2009 All-MWC First Team

CAREER STATS:

SUMMARY AND PROJECTIONS:

Washington could very well go in the 1st Round depending on his performance at the NFL Scouting Combine next week. The chances of him going before Sean Weatherspoon are not that far out of reach if he does everything better than the Missouri Linebacker. He has one guy to beat out and if he can do it, he will most likely be selected in the 1st Round. Washington is 6'3" 234.

Possibilities -- 1st Round; Picks 18-32, 2nd Round; Picks 33-64.

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http://www.ninersnation.com/section/100-in-100-2010